Europe's Best Ski Resorts for Snowboarders


(2020-01-07 14:04:45)

 

With world-class terrain parks to hit and remote backcountry to explore, the Alps are a go-to destination for snowboarders looking to sharpen their board skills. Snowpark-loving freestylers flip and spin through the air, while freeriders seek out hidden off-piste powder fields. With the winter season now in full flow and boarders eager to book their dream trip to the Alps, here’s a rundown of some of Europe’s best ski resorts for snowboarders.

Chamonix, France

Nestled beneath the mighty peak of Mont Blanc, Chamonix is an expert snowboarder’s dream destination. Throughout the Chamonix Valley, the steep slopes, soaring couloirs and dense forests enjoy regular heavy snowfall – offering amazing freeride conditions.

The area is best-known for the world-famous Vallée Blanche, but there are plenty of quieter off-piste areas to explore besides. Local knowledge is everything here, and groups booking the services of a guide often reap the freshest powder rewards.

Chamonix in France Chamonix is one of France's best snowboarding destinations

Verbier, Switzerland

Verbier sits in the Four Valleys, with challenging terrain ideally suited to strong snowboarders in search of the steep and deep. Here, marked itinerary runs criss-cross the piste map – offering bold explorers the chance to seek out the off-piste with ease.

Many of the better-known off-piste runs and couloirs are located beneath the Mont Gelé gondola and on the Mont Fort glacier, but be sure to book the services of a guide for the best experience. When the clouds come in and fresh snow falls, those in the know head over to the Bruson and Savoleyres sectors – where tree-lined slopes offer shelter along with spectacular backcountry terrain.

Tignes and Val d'Isère, France

Tignes and Val d'Isère are neighbouring resorts in the expansive Espace Killy – widely considered among the finest of France’s many skiable domains. Here, diverse snowparks and exciting off-piste combine to give snowboarders of all levels something to aim for. Tignes is a largely purpose-built resort, whilst Val is prettier and more traditional – but they complement each other perfectly.

Val d'Isere in the Espace Killy Val d'Isere is considered among France's finest Alpine resorts

Ischgl, Austria

Ischgl is a charming and lively resort with one of Austria’s biggest après ski scenes. Up on the slopes, diverse terrain, rapid lifts and hidden powder fields offer plenty for bold snowboarders to enjoy – from beginner level to expert. Ischgl also boasts a world-class snowpark, with a dazzling collection of challenging features for freestylers to hit.

Saas Fee, Switzerland

The Swiss resort of Saas Fee offers high-altitude, snow sure slopes – with bags of charm, lively après ski and stunning Alpine scenery. The enormous snowpark keeps freestylers busy all winter long, and the top-flight tuition available makes it a great resort to choose for beginner and improver snowboarders. Booking the services of a guide will always help you make the most of the terrain, and when heading off piste, the right kit and the correct avalanche knowledge will help you stay safer.

Avoriaz, France

Home to Le Stash – Burton’s all-natural snowpark nestled in the pine forests of the Lindarets sector – Avoriaz ranks among France’s best freestyle ski resorts. Here, you’ll find terrain parks with hits and kickers suited to all levels, alongside a monster half-pipe of eye-watering proportions. If you’re heading to the Alps and looking to sharpen your skills in the park, Avoriaz is an absolute must.

Val Thorens, France

Set within the Three Valleys, Val Thorens is the highest of Europe’s many ski resorts – with an exceptional snow record from December through to early May. Sweeping slopes, plenty of tempting powder pockets within easy reach, and hassle-free access through to Méribel, La Tania and Courchevel combine to make VT an amazing place to snowboard – but you do have to be careful to avoid a few flat sections here and there.

Snowboarders and skiers in Val Thorens Val Thorens is Europe's highest resort, with an amazing snow record

Mayrhofen, Austria

The Vans Penken park ranks among the biggest and best terrain parks in Europe, and puts Mayrhofen well and truly on the map for snowboarders in Europe. This characterful Austrian resort offers vibrant après ski, soaring slopes on the Hintertux glacier, and superb ski school standards.  

Laax, Switzerland

For many boarders, Laax represents the pinnacle of European snowboarding. The parks here are just spectacular, with world-class groomers and shapers keeping the hits and kickers pristine. The resort plays host to the annual Laax Open – widely considered among the biggest and best comps in the winter calendar. During the slopestyle and halfpipe competitions, skilled freestylers from across the globe flock to Laax for their chance to take top prize on the world stage.

For more info on some of the resorts mentioned in this blog – where brave snow-lovers can really get the heart pumping – check out our piece on alpine ski resorts for adrenaline-seeking skiers. You can also reach us on 0203 0800 202 to chat over the best accommodation options in your top ski resorts of choice.